A constitutional change in American Samoa will be on the ballot next year if a measure introduced in the territory's Senate is approved.
The American Samoa Legislature Fono building in Fagatogo Photo: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Senators Tuaoloa Fruean and Nuanuaolefeagaiga Saoluaga Nua sponsored a legislative veto override measure, which had been voted down in previous elections.
If approved, a bill that is vetoed by the governor will still be able to pass if it is supported by a two-thirds majority in the House and Senate.
Currently, if a governor vetoes a bill it is sent back to the Fono to be repassed by each chamber before going back to the governor, who can send it to the United States' interior secretary for a final decision.
The secretary can either approve or kill it.
This rule irks local leaders in American Samoa, who say it is reminiscent of the days of appointed governors and needs to change.
